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Excedrin Extra Strength vs. Tylenol Extra Strength: Detailed Comparison

What is the difference between Excedrin Extra Strength and Tylenol Extra Strength? Get a detailed comparison of their uses, ratings, side effects, and more.

Excedrin Extra Strength vs. Tylenol Extra Strength: Key Differences

Excedrin Extra Strength and Tylenol Extra Strength are both over-the-counter pain relievers, but they have some key differences:

Active Ingredients

Excedrin Extra Strength contains a combination of acetaminophen, aspirin, and caffeine, while Tylenol Extra Strength contains only acetaminophen.

Approved Uses

Excedrin Extra Strength is approved for the treatment of osteoarthritis, migraines, and general pain/fever, while Tylenol Extra Strength is approved for sciatica, muscle pain, pain, and fever.

Ratings and Reviews

Excedrin Extra Strength has an average rating of 7.1 out of 10 on Drugs.com, with 67% of reviewers reporting a positive effect. Tylenol Extra Strength has an average rating of 5.9 out of 10, with 48% of reviewers reporting a positive effect.

Excedrin Extra Strength: Overview

Excedrin Extra Strength is an over-the-counter pain reliever that contains a combination of acetaminophen, aspirin, and caffeine. It is primarily used for the treatment of osteoarthritis, migraines, and general pain/fever. Excedrin may also be used for purposes not listed in its medication guide.

Excedrin Extra Strength Ratings and Reviews

Excedrin Extra Strength has an average rating of 7.1 out of 10 on Drugs.com, based on 39 reviews. 67% of reviewers reported a positive effect, while 31% reported a negative effect.

Tylenol Extra Strength: Overview

Tylenol Extra Strength is an over-the-counter pain reliever that contains only acetaminophen as its active ingredient. It is an effective mild pain reliever with a low risk of side effects. Tylenol Extra Strength is primarily used for the treatment of sciatica, muscle pain, general pain, and fever. It may also be used for purposes not listed in its medication guide.

Tylenol Extra Strength Ratings and Reviews

Tylenol Extra Strength has an average rating of 5.9 out of 10 on Drugs.com, based on 30 reviews. 48% of reviewers reported a positive effect, while 34% reported a negative effect.

Key Comparison: Excedrin Extra Strength vs. Tylenol Extra Strength

When comparing Excedrin Extra Strength and Tylenol Extra Strength, the main differences are:

  • Active Ingredients: Excedrin contains acetaminophen, aspirin, and caffeine, while Tylenol contains only acetaminophen.
  • Approved Uses: Excedrin is approved for osteoarthritis, migraines, and general pain/fever, while Tylenol is approved for sciatica, muscle pain, pain, and fever.
  • Ratings and Reviews: Excedrin has a higher average rating of 7.1 out of 10, with 67% of reviewers reporting a positive effect, compared to Tylenol’s average rating of 5.9 out of 10 and 48% of reviewers reporting a positive effect.

Side Effects of Excedrin Extra Strength

Some common side effects of Excedrin Extra Strength include:

  • Stomach pain, heartburn, nausea, vomiting
  • Dizziness, headache
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Allergic reactions

See the full list of Excedrin side effects for more information.

Side Effects of Tylenol Extra Strength

Some common side effects of Tylenol Extra Strength include:

  • Nausea, vomiting
  • Rash
  • Liver damage (with overdose)

See the full list of Tylenol side effects for more information.

Pricing and Availability

Both Excedrin Extra Strength and Tylenol Extra Strength are available over-the-counter and as lower-cost generic versions. Pricing will vary by location and retailer, but Excedrin tends to be slightly more expensive than Tylenol.

Which is Better: Excedrin Extra Strength or Tylenol Extra Strength?

The “better” option between Excedrin Extra Strength and Tylenol Extra Strength will depend on the individual’s specific needs and preferences. Factors to consider include:

  • Intended use (e.g. migraines vs. muscle pain)
  • Sensitivity to the active ingredients
  • Ratings and reviews
  • Cost and availability

It’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new over-the-counter medication. They can help determine the most appropriate and safest option based on the individual’s medical history and needs.